For that reason, Google’s Chrome browser offers an incognito feature which prevents the browser from storing information about the websites you visit. It’s a way to surf naturally and make your own opinions and decisions rather than being force fed ads or services matched to your browsing habits.

While Incognito Mode is handy, it can be much more useful when manipulated to function automatically whenever users visit certain websites. Ghost Incognito is a Chrome extension designed to do just that. It instantly switches the browser to incognito mode when a site on the list is visited.

How To Automatically Open Websites In Incognito Mode

1. Download and install Ghost Incognito.
2. After installation you’ll notice a small ghost icon in the extensions toolbar area.
   
3. Browse the web as you normally would. When you navigate to a website you’d like to prevent Chrome from tracking, simply click the ghost icon. That’s it!

Remove Websites From Ghost Incognito

To remove websites from the Ghost Incognito list, click the wrench icon and navigate to Tools → Extensions → click Options under Ghost Incognito → Click Remove all (#) domains.

To remove specific websites, allow Ghost Incognito to run in incognito mode. Navigate to Tools → Extensions → check the box labeled Allow in incognito under Ghost Incognito.

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The simple fact is not all online backup and storage services are created equal. Some work with all operating systems but have limited space or some have sync capability but don’t support Linux. The either or features comparison can be frustrating when trying to find a company that’s reputable, stable and trustworthy enough to hold your sensitive data. If the only thing holding you back is endpoint server encryption, then the most straight forward solution is to encrypt it yourself.

You may be thinking, “Encryption? That’s too technical for me!” It may sound like a word out of the movies, but encryption is more commonplace than you might think. Geeks and tech enthusiasts have been using it for many years for their own personal files and it’s a good idea for other, non-technical, users to start too. Everything is moving to the cloud and users will need to protect their data themselves instead of relying on a third party to do it for them. Who else will care about your data the way you do?

That’s where encryption tools come in. The one we’re looking at and highly recommending is Truecrypt. Truecrypt is free open-source disk encryption software, meaning it’s free to download and use as you like. Without getting too technical, Truecrypt uses several algorithms, including the popular AES to encrypt data. Algorithms can be used in conjunction with each other to add two and three layers to the protection and all perform at 256-bit key size.

Technical details aside, if you aren’t a geek, then you’ll likely want to know how easy it is to use and what the extended benefits are. Starting with the latter, benefits include encryption of portable storage devices such as flash drives and external hard drives, entire partition encryption, individual file or folder encryption and hidden partitions. Ease of use depends on how comfortable you are with software, but the process itself is straight forward.

In the screenshots (taken on a linux system) below, notice the simple interface. There’s no wrong way to encrypt your data when it comes to choosing an algorithm and the same premise applies as with any other password protected item – use a strong password. Truecrypt does the rest. The documentation on using Truecrypt is extremely thorough so instead of rehashing the information, it’s best to reference the material directly if you have questions.

After you’ve encrypted all your data, simply instruct your online backup / storage service to sync the Truecrypt container or upload it manually to the cloud. Now, even if a hooded figure with the powers of a Ninja and hacker skills of a supercomputer gain access to your cloud service, your data will still be encrypted and protected.

Finally, Truecrypt is free software and the product is kept up to date and patched because users continue to support them through donations. If you do use and like Truecrypt we encourage you to donate to the cause.

Download Truecrypt

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Technicians often work on Windows PCs which are password protected. It’s almost second nature to ask for the user’s password before servicing the system, unfortunately sometimes even techs forget. If you’re a technician that routinely works on PCs that have been picked up or dropped off, then the last thing you want to do is contact the client to ask for a password. It can cause delays in repair and is a bit embarrassing.

Kon-boot is a simple program which bypasses the Windows login password and allows technicians to gain access to the system temporarily in order to complete repairs. To get started, you’ll need to head over to Kryptoslogic and download the appropriate version for your needs. Afterwards, follow these steps:

1. Burn the .iso to CD.
2. Reboot to the CD.
3. At Windows login screen press the Enter key without typing in a password.

A very simple 3-step solution which saves a lot of time if you don’t have the password. After you’re finished, simply remove the CD and reboot the system. It will startup normally and the login password will again be required.

Of course there are other ways to bypass Windows passwords, but Kon-boot is very easy and works quite well. Obviously, we recommend this as a technicians tool and advise against using Kon-boot for less than legitimate reasons.

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The post Bypass Windows Passwords For PC Repairs first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

If you’ve ever wanted to send a secret online message or at very least send something sensitive that needs to be hidden from the rest of the web, then Secrets is the web app you’re looking for.

Secrets sends an encrypted email to a recipient of your choosing. In order to start, login with your Google account. From there, it’s simply a matter of entering the recipient’s email address and typing up the message. A password is attached to the message when sent and only the recipient can read the message after the corresponding password is input. The password is not stored or contained inside the message making for a secure transmission.

The only caveat to the service is that your recipient will need to know the password as well. When a recipient receives the message, the contents are displayed as jumbled garbage until the proper password is entered for decryption.

Messages are encrypted using DES encryption @ 64 bits by default. Those who want more security can increase the encryption at several levels from Triple DES (128-bit) to Blowfish (up to 448-bit). The service is free and Secrets provides an informational video for those interested, but unfamiliar with the idea of encrypting messages. Secrets is actually incredibly simple and perhaps future thinking as stronger security is always needed when it comes to exchanging information online.

Visit Secrets

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Make Your Website Part Of The Nifty Collection

The post Secrets Online Encryption Tool Keeps Messages Private first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

The important thing now is that it’s working its way into systems and the virus has been linked to a Microsoft Word bug. Microsoft Corp. acknowledged the bug was previously unknown and that hackers are using the flaw to infect computer systems. Microsoft is working to create a patch for the bug and will likely issue it immediately when ready.

Not surprisingly, the infection is carried mostly through email attachments. The virus is downloaded with corrupted MS Word documents at which time the virus has the ability to take control of the system, multiply and eventually search for data. To what end the data is searched we’ll leave to your imagination, but preliminary thoughts center around disruption to governmental networks.

As of now, there is no fix for this variant of virus Microsoft has issued a temporary fix and despite what the goal is of the infection, home users need to be aware that they can be infected. We are recommending users simply do not open or accept MS Word attachments at this time. There are a number of other ways to receive files that contain all the data a Word document does. For now, we suggest you use them.

Remember even if you know the user sending you the Word document, you can’t be sure they weren’t somehow infected prior to sending it. Use extreme caution when dealing with MS Word documents that are not yours.

Source Reuters

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The post Duqu Virus Linked To Microsoft Word Flaw first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

Anti-virus

This one is the easiest by far. Microsoft Security Essentials (MSE) is the best anti-virus period. It is free, which is not to say it works any less than paid anti-virus, in fact it’s better. MSE is updated automatically with Windows updates and since it comes from Microsoft you can trust the source and know that it integrates nicely into the Windows environment. MSE isn’t bloated with things you don’t need like additional firewalls or fear inducing identity protection (here’s a tip, there’s no such thing). Windows already comes with a built-in firewall which is more than enough for home users. MSE is ligthweight meaning it takes up far less space than a lot of the ‘security suites’ out there.

Features are what you’d typically find with any anti-virus, a schedule, color coded alert system, automatic cleaning, white-list locations and automatic scan of downloaded files. Here’s a little something to keep in mind, the Windows 8 developer preview comes preloaded with MSE which indicates that future versions of Windows with ship with MSE already installed. Now would be a great time to familiarize yourself with it.

Download Microsoft Security Essentials

Browser

This one is tough to answer depending on the question. Is your primary objective speed, standards, extensions, security, simplicity? Let’s work backwards from that list.

Simplicity

If all you want is simplicity, stick with Internet Explorer (IE) for Windows and Safari for Mac. It doesn’t get any simpler than IE, it comes pre-installed and will open any webpage without issue, but with that simplicity comes danger as well. IE is the most attacked browser because of flaws and holes in the coding so it’s up to you to be aware of your browsing security.

Security

Which leads us to security. In terms of out-of-the-box security, they are all better than IE, but still vulnerable to web threats. We recommend Firefox with extensions as the best choice for a browser with top security. Extensions or add-ons add effects to the browser to change the way it behaves or looks. Frankly, to use Firefox without them is missing the point. Extensions like NoScript and AdBlock Plus are essentials. A close second and worth mentioning is Opera because of it’s built-in security features. While not as well known as some of the others, Opera is a great browser and worth a look if you want to try something outside the norm.

Extensions

Extensions we’ve already touched on and we’ll continue to recommend Firefox. A very close second is Chrome. It used to be Firefox had the developers to continue propagating new add-ons at a feverish pace, then Chrome came along and suddenly developers flocked to the new platform and so the amount of extensions has somewhat leveled out across the playing field. Chrome has a lot of useful extensions, in fact we use many of them daily, likewise for Firefox. The main difference we see is quality. Firefox keeps a stronger view over the extensions while Chrome is minimally maintained, much like the Android market. Firefox has well established extensions and continues to have new ones added so you can’t go wrong in choosing it as your browser of choice.

Standards

Chrome is our choice for standards. Google takes a definitive stance on web standards as a whole so there is no real surprise that they lead the way with adjusting their browser to support the latest and greatest in web development. Close seconds are Firefox, Opera and Safari. Sorry IE users, IE still lacks in this category.

Speed

This one could get debated forever. Speed tests will show browser A is faster than browser B until browser B gets a beta update or a different test is run. We won’t debate speed tests, they are what they are. What we will do is recommend for speed based on real world usage and performance. Our recommendation is Opera with Chrome coming in second. Chrome is fast to open, no question, but opening is only part of the process. The browser needs to open and load a page, in this case the homepage quickly. Opera does both of those things faster than Chrome. Opera also loaded pages beyond the initial startup faster than Chrome, in fact at times Chrome was sluggish compared to Opera. Note, even at sluggish, Chrome is easily number two in terms of speed.

All browsers mentioned were tested on Windows with Chrome, Firefox and Opera additionally tested on Linux. We based test results for Google’s browser using Chrome not Chromium. For what it’s worth, Chromium was much faster and more responsive on Linux.

Download Chrome

Download Firefox

Download Opera

Download Safari

Speed Enhancement Software

There is no such thing. If you want to speed up your system, the number one most important thing to change is your anti-virus. If you’re using an all-in-one suite or bloated anti-virus software package then your system is being taxed every time you boot up. The next options are to use the disc cleanup and defragment tools provided within Windows by default. There are some additional tweaks with startup that are useful, but will not be listing because layman use can wreak havoc on a system if done improperly.

Many will say third party software is an option. Third party software can clean out old data and files, but that is not “speeding up” a PC, it’s performing a function that may or may not increase speed based on the amount of cleanup they can do. We recommend against using them unless you are a tech professional who understands what everything means. Many of those software options affect system registry and that’s not a good idea even for techs. If you must use one, then we recommend DrivePurge, but we still advise calling a professional if your system is so slow that you feel the need to use software like that.

Download DrivePurge

Your Thoughts

Those are our top three field questions. What do you agree or disagree with? Do you have other suggestions for our readers? Let us know in the comments!

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The post Software Picks: Top Field Questions Answered first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

What is Online Virus Removal?

Online virus removal, sometimes referred to as remote virus removal, is a method of removing viruses whereby the removal process is performed by a third party via remote access or remote support while connected through the web to your computer. Often online virus removal is wrongfully thought of as removing viruses from an online scan or web based source. Typically users can scan their system online but the removal process cannot be performed without a download or connection to a virus removal service.

So, how does online virus removal work?

It is really very simple. You connect your computer to someone else’s, be it an individual or computer repair company. There are several ways of achieving the connection but its important to have a secure, encrypted connection like the connection used by GeekITDown. After a connection is established, the technician on the other end will perform the virus removal service and disconnect when complete.

Where can I get online virus removal service?

We’re proud to brag about our online virus removal service so if you’re in need of service you can get started with virus removal here. To be fair, there are other sources available across the web. The thing to remember is that not all services are alike. Price, customer service, quality and follow-up are all important factors when making your decision. Another factor that many potential clients inquire about is the location of service providers. Clients want to know where their money is going and who is receiving it. As an example, all GeekITDown services are processed in the US. That means all funds are paid to a US company and a tech located in the US handles the service call.

When should I use online virus removal or similar services?

Has your computer ever caught a virus and your anti-virus cleans it only to have it pop back up again? The biggest reason for that is the virus in question has planted itself in a way that it restarts itself where the anti-virus can’t get to or see it. When that occurs you’ll need to get some online help to fully eliminate it.

Why online virus removal instead of a software download?

While software can be effective, there is zero guarantee it will remove the virus infection. Online service is just that, a service. You’re hiring a person or company to remove the virus infecting your computer. That is an important distinction. The work from a person or company is likely to be guaranteed in some way. There are other benefits like interaction with the technician so you can ask questions or confirm the removal service was successful, a technician is likely to go the extra mile whereas once you buy the software you are on your own.

Summary

Online virus removal is a fantastic use of today’s technology to help computer users across the globe. The functionality is sound and the benefit immense. There is no reason not to hire an online virus removal service and take advantage of this modern style repairman.

Have you Ever used an online repair service? Have a story to share? Share your thoughts with other users in the comments section.

The post Online Virus Removal first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

Now that the holidays are over, it’s time to take a look at the upcoming year in computers and technology.  This year we are starting off by shining the light on a form of infection that has recently crept back into systems.  Ransomware.

Locks Your Files

A ransomware infection is your typical malware with one very significant difference.  Sure, the malware still pops up notifications endlessly, slows down the infected computer system, causes system wide problems and attempts to influence the user to pay for a ‘magic bullet’ type solution but this malware has an additional advantage.  The malware will actually encrypt your files.  What that means is that if a user becomes infected, recovery of those files will be virtually impossible.. for now.

Never Pay Criminals

The ransomware, like typical malware, offers users an option to pay to have the files unencrypted and released from the infection’s hold, but ultimately no matter how much money you pay out, the files are never decrypted nor is the infection removed from your system.  Of course it goes without saying that you should never send those criminals any money.

Get Help

Our advice, should you get infected with ransomware, is to immediately shut down your computer system and contact GeekITDown technicians or your own computer repair technician.  By doing so, you limit the amount of files which may be encrypted and thus lost forever while allowing for the technician to potentially save any remaining files.

Backup Your Files

One additional thing worth noting.  In order to limit the damage done by this or any other infection, it’s always best to have a backup of your data.  Having a safe and secure backup of all your personal documents, pictures, music, etc. is priceless should something catastrophic happen.  If you need help deciding which type of backup solution works best for you, contact us and one of our technicians can sort out the information with you.

Been bitten by this type of infection?  Have a story to share?  Share your thoughts with other users in the comments section.

The post Ransomware first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

Why now?

Recently there has been a rash of infections which not only compromise the system but leave anti-virus programs with the task of repeatedly removing the same infection. Whether this surge of infections is related to user behavior or a concerted effort by developers of those viruses we can’t say, but either way it spells bad news for computer systems everywhere. In an effort to continue educating users on protecting themselves we are offering some information about these ‘repeat offenders’.

What now?

If you’ve seen your anti-virus program repeatedly remove or clean the same virus over and over again then there is a good chance your system is compromised more than is immediately noticeable and the removal process needs to be more in depth. There are some things to consider if you experience repeated removal by your anti-virus program.

1. Is my anti-virus software working?

First, the removal process is working but infections plant other files on your system which re-initiate the infection after removal, that means it can be removed an infinite amount of times but will reinfect the system an equal amount of times.

1. System hijacked?

Second, behind the scenes, infections are not just ruining system configurations they are deliberately undermining system security in order to send data from your computer to somewhere else on the web. Meaning, things like passwords or banking statements which may be stored on your system can be transmitted to someone else.

1. Remove, Remove, Remove Again

Lastly, sometimes a thorough in-depth cleaning doesn’t do the trick. There are times when more than one removal process needs to be performed in order to fully eradicate the infections. That process ultimately involves software and manual (human interaction) removal procedures.

Conclusion

Infections often cause panic in users, as they should, but the key is to act quickly. The longer an infection is allowed to occupy a system, the greater the chance for long term and potentially disastrous results. If you’re experiencing symptoms of repeated removal of the same infection by your anti-virus program or browsers taking you to wrong pages or not working at all, then it’s time to get some help and remove the infections once and for all.

Need help? We can remove your infections online, read more, signup or contact us to get started.

Have an infection story to share? Have a tip for preventing infections? Share them with other users.

The post Anti-virus Letdown first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.

I’ve Got Nothing to Lose, it’s Free!

The allure of free software is very strong these days as users need to save money and require instant remedies for their computing issues. The thought process for users seems to be – if it’s free, then I have nothing to lose. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Many of the so-called ‘free’ alternatives are actually badware programs or ‘trial period’ software.

Badware is a Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

Badware programs essentially install malware and are designed to corrupt and damage a computer system while simultaneously convincing the user to purchase a fix for the problems. Unfortunately, there isn’t much recourse for users who succumb to badware. Users are unaware that the software is useless and possibly infecting their own computer system by using it. Although frustrating, it is a very common occurrence and users have very little warning beforehand. The makers of such badware are able to advertise and promote their product just like any other legitimate software maker and more often than not are better at it. They tend to portray a feeling of emergency or ease of use to lure users into downloading the product. It works and their isn’t a whole lot than can be done to combat it.

Stop Nagging Me!

The ‘trial-period’ software that users evaluate is, in many cases, not as risky but can still lead to future problems or a decrease in system performance. We recommend if the software in question is limited to trial-period only, that clients do more research or contact us before committing. Most times a more suitable alternative is available that fits our clients’ needs. The real problem with trial software is just that, its a trial version, which means at the end of the trial it will stop working and inevitably nag users endlessly with popups and reminders until they ultimately purchase the software. Generally speaking, users don’t want to be nagged, they don’t want to be told what to buy or when to buy it and they definitely don’t want a software product to suddenly stop working. Trial software can be useful if you honestly just want to test before buying, just make sure you know everything that’s being installed and how to remove it afterwards.

Is it Junk or Treasure?

So how can users spot the badware and wade through the junk to find something legitimate? There are a number of things. The best thing to do is call your “Computer Specialist”, we will assume you all have one (if not contact usto ascertain the information you need). They have the knowledge you need and can quickly offer solid advice on particular products and it is the simplest approach. Another option is to ask someone you know, friend or family member. Odds are the software you’re interested in relates to an activity you would like to engage in with those people, so they may have some insight . One of the most difficult ways to determine if junk is junk is to very carefully read about what is being advertised. The word “free” itself should set off warning alarms. That doesn’t mean that free is always bad but if its free with the promise of solving a problem, then it likely has other motives. For instance, if free is the main point of attention for a product and there is a claim to somehow improve your computing or resolve system issues then you should be cautious. Whereas, if you pay for a service and are then offered something free or provided free software that is by nature providing an alternative rather than a solution then those options are likely to be valid and worth inquiring about.

Call a computer specialist for information and services.

Ask a Professional

If you need a service which resolves problems, call a professional and save yourself from potential identity theft or financial loss. Admittedly, we are a bit one-sided in that thinking but experience supports that statement. Users inevitably believe they can solve their system issues themselves by finding a ‘magic bullet’ type free solution. If that were really the case, tech professionals would be out of work and there wouldn’t be words like cyber-warfare or hacking being thrown around when sensitive bank or government data is compromised. If you dislike the idea of paying someone for something that wasn’t your fault, you’re not alone. You, as the user, have done nothing to deserve an infection or malicious scheme. However, take the time to call around and talk with professionals. Listen to what they have to say and of course check prices. If you don’t like the price, say so and maybe they can offer a discount of some sort. Either way its better than dealing with identity stealing spyware and system corrupting viruses on your own.

Conclusion

Finally, remember that just because it’s free doesn’t mean you should try it. Know what you need and do some research before sampling something. Absolutely do not download every free piece of software you run across. As an example, there are literally dozens of browsers (Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari, etc.) available to users. Only website developers should use multiple browsers for testing purposes. The average user should not be using several browsers on a regular basis. Find one you like and stick with it. Although browsers are generally safe to install, there is absolutely no need for an average user to have 5, 6 or more browsers installed on their system. It’s unnecessary and overkill and a prime example of the ‘free bug’ hitting the end user.

The post Lay Off The Junk first appeared on GeekITDown Computer Services & Technology Solutions.